AN EAGLE LION FILMS PRESS BOOK

TREMENDOUS NEWSPAPER, MAGAZINE, PROMOTION CAMPAIGNS ...ALL GUARANTEED TO HELP YOU LOCALLY!

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^.°ke ChesterficlT ^mucii Milder “The Pride of Brooklyn” as HIMSELF 1. Your "big stunt" on "The Jackie Robin¬ son Story" might be a "Jackie Robinson in Day" which you could set up in co-op- operation with a local team. Idea of "Day" is that part of proceeds from both game and opening showing of the picture can be donated to local youth organizations; a type of work Jackie is most interested in.

2. In planting publicity material remember that the picture has many angles which are suitable for sports and general pages THE |n as well as movie pages. (See Pages 18- 22 in this Press Book).

3. Special attention should be given to all spots in town where the sporting fra¬ ternity congregates. These should be well covered with window cards, throw¬ aways, etc.

4. Follow through on the merchandising promotions on pages 6-9 of this Press i JACKIE , Book in order to promote quantities of material which can be used for give¬ aways and contest prizes.

5. Your front and lobby on "The Jackie Robinson Story" should, of course, re¬ flect the predominantly baseball motif of the picture. Main art of Jackie Robinson can be mounted above the marquee with plenty of baseball action stills under mar¬ quee. (Local sports editor should have action shots of Robinson in addition to those in the Exchange Set available at National Screen Service). Mat 3A, showing Robinson as an all- around athlete would make an excellent blowup for lobby. Also give your patrons plenty of advance notice that the picture is on the way. This can be done with a 40x60 bearing art of Robinson and suit¬ able copy.

6. If you wish to plant a four-day contest with local newspaper or use it in heralds one can be easily worked which links "The Jackie Robinson Story" with other recent films about baseball. Stills from pictures might be secured from nearest National Screen exchange. Other pictures might include "Pride of the Yankees," RUBY DEE RICHARD LANE "The Babe Ruth Story," 'The Stratton Story" and "It Happens Every Spring." Contest can be worked by showing stills from other films and asking entrants to identify pictures.

7. Local newspaper window may be pro¬ moted for a sports window using news¬ paper pages which tell of Robinson's past accomplishments.

8. A special screening can be held for top local baseball teams with their comments on film being relayed to press.

9. Local newspapers and radio stations might be interested in sending their sports editors to review the picture along with regular film critics.

10. Remember to get your action-packed "Jackie Robinson Story" trailer from Na¬ tional Screen well in advance of playdate.

1 1. Watch local and national publications for news items on Jackie Robinson's current baseball activities which can be put to use in your campaign.

12. A news herald can use stills from the exchange set to point up the highlights ” of the film with sports headline type captions.

13. Check stories in publicity section of this Press Book on baseball celebrities who appear in this film to see if any are lo- BILLY WAYNE as “Clyde Sukeforth” • LOUISE BEAVERS calites. 14. "The Jackie Robinson Story" will bene¬ fit from a full poster campaign, so plan Directed by ALFRED E. GREEN who gave you “The Jolson Story ” for it well in advance. 15. Make up special throwaways for distri¬ Written for the screen by Lawrence Taylor and Arthur Mann bution at the sites of all local sports events around playdate time. Produced by MORT BRISKIN • An Eagle Lion Films Release Take my tip - _ :oke Chesternem & Miller

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A vast merchandising promotion including al¬ most 30 tieups has been lined up and is already in Souvenir Program! operation to make "The Jackie Robinson Story" p one of the most widely promoted motion pictures A special souvenir program has been prepared for "The Jackie Robinson Story." It's loaded with ever made! big interesting pictures and colorful stories about Every person in this country should hear or read Jackie Robinson and the picture. It's an item which about Jackie Robinson and "The Jackie Robinson should appeal to every sports fan in your commun¬ Story" not once but many times! These promotions ity. This big souvenir program is available at $.35 cover and re-cover every possible angle — ads in per copy or $.25 per copy in lots of 1,000 or more. national magazines, dealer displays, national and There is imprint space on the back cover and books local advertising, giveaways and throwaways — will be imprinted if desired. Order this souvenir and will continue to do so for months after national program from Program Publishing Company, 1472 release date! Broadway, New York. • These promotions include almost every imagin¬ able type of product for both old and young. the picture with full credits on the jacket of their forthcom¬ LATE NEWS! ing biography of Jackie Robinson by ace sportswriter Bill Roeder—this being the first in a ''Most Valuable Player" Just as this Press Book goes to the printer. Cigar Institute of America and Bulova Watch Company and Wildroot series. This book is being extensively merchandised and Hair Products join the big parade! AND full-page four- opens the way to window and counter display plus co-op color Wheaties ads featuring Jackie Robinson start break¬ ads with local book outlets. Barnes is preparing a special ing in important spots like the back cover of the Saturday full-color display on the book to go to thousands of stores. Evening Post! More are on the way and you will be kept For name of nearest local dealer write Joel Brook, A. S. informed! Barnes & Co., 101 Fifth Ave., New York City. Be sure to follow through with your local American Broadcasting Company station on co-operative promotion with Jackie Robinson's own radio show broadcast every Jackie Robinson Comic Book: A complete ♦ Sunday night over the full ABC network. comic book about Jackie Robinson with a circulation well into the hundreds of thousands is published every two Here's the line-up as it stands right now. There are TWO months by Fawcett Publications. Here is your chance for more full pages of tieup information following this one. newsstand tack cards and truck posters. Additional informa¬ tion from Fawcett Publications, 67 W. 44th St., New York City. Chesterfield Cigarettes Jackie Robinson Flip Book: a great give¬ Four-color national magazine ads with art of Jackie away item including pictures of Jackie showing "How to Robinson and picture credits are set to roll right around " and "How to Steal Bases" is available at $50 per thou¬ national release date AND another big magazine campaign sand. Each book carries full picture credits and space for built around Ruby Dee who plays Jackie's wife in the picture. imprinting which will be done by publisher at low cost Follow up this -barrelled load of pre-selling ammuni- (imprinting free on lots over 5,000). Get it from Miniature Flip y tion by working with local cigarette dealers who can help Book Company, 206 Lexington Ave., New York, 16, N. Y. with choice window space. "Louisville Sluggers" MUSIC PROMOTIONS ♦ RobinSOn Song1: a catchy popular song entitled A publicity promotion which should snag volumes of "Did You See Jackie Robinson Hit That Ball?" has been pub¬ space has been arranged with Hillerich and Bradsby, man¬ lished by Sophisticate Music and is currently being plugged ufacturers of the ''Louisville Slugger'' baseball bats. widely through recordings by RCA Victor and Decca. Make A special eight-foot bat is being constructed which will sure local disc jockeys have plenty of these recordings for be signed by the nation's top baseball stars and presented plugs around playdate. Also get music stores and other to Baseball's Hall of Fame right when it will do you the most good. Teriffic coverage is already set. record outlets for window and counter displays and co-op Hillerich and Bradsby are also making available to you ads. a special miniature model of the bat they make especially RCA VICTOR record No. 20-3514 by Count Basie and Orch. for Jackie Robinson. These bats, each bearing Jackie's sig¬ DECCA record No. 24675 by Buddy Johnson and Orchestra. nature, are excellent low-cost giveaway items. Write Mr. SOPHISTICATE MUSIC, Jim McCarthy, 1619 B'way, N.Y.C. J4ftfcGrath, Hillerich and Bradsby, 434 Finzer St., Louisville, Ky., for complete details. Columbia Robinson Album: Columbia has BOOK PROMOTIONS available now in music stores everywhere an album for youngsters entitled "Slugger at the Bat" (Number MJV-57) Robinson Biography: The leading sports book which features Pee Wee Reese and Jackie Robinson. This \ publishers, A. S. Barnes & Co., have included a still from gives you another disc jockey and record window plus. vovytIMS M GETSlOHttK WAWhiG

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So great is the power of Jackie Robinson's name that dozens of top manufacturers have used it to FREE! FREE! FREE! tag their products which are big-sellers in every region in the United States — AND ALL THESE RADIO SPOT PLATTER MANUFACTURERS AND THEIR LOCAL OUTLETS A nine-spot radio platter — with each spot ARE INCREASING THEIR ALREADY TREMEN¬ backed up with music and sound effects has been DOUS PROMOTION CAMPAIGNS AND PEGGING been prepared for "The Jackie Robinson Story" THEM TO "THE JACKIE ROBINSON STORY!" and is FREE to you! This platter contains three one-minute spots, No matter what kind of local promotions you three 30-second spots and three 15-second spots. are looking for, use the advertising power of these Use this powerful seat-seller well in advance of local outlets—it's set to go. All you have to do is opening. Get the platter from Exploitation Mana¬ qjntact the stores and get going on displays, co-op ger, Eagle Lion Films, 165 W. 46th St., New York ads, etc.. 19, N. Y. Be sure to state how you plan to use the Here's proof: For the New York opening of the platter in your letter requesting, it. picture big-scale local promotions were arranged with famous names like R. H. Macy and Co., Da- Jackie Robinson Tie-Rack: This rack is em¬ vega Stores, Brentano's Bookshops and the Gem blazoned with Robinson's picture in full color. All set to tie Stores. You can do the same. Just get going on this in with local promotions on "The Jackie Robinson Story." list: Write Mr. Sande, S-S Inc., 100 Gold Street, New York City.

Jackie Robinson Baseball Jacket: a big- Jackie Robinson Raincoat, Umbrella: selling item backed by its manufacturer with extensive na¬ A big advertiser with a big-selling item and plenty of deal¬ tional magazine advertising and widely promoted through ers. For local co-operation write the Dolly Princess Company, thousands of outlets like Macy's. Contact Joel Levitt, Saul- 1215 Neck Road, Brooklyn, N. Y. craft Inc., 1182 Broadway, New York City.

Jackie Robinson T-Shirt: Ads in national Jackie Robinson Balls And Balloons: magazines like Our World and Ebony are including full Hundreds of thousands of these are sold every year through |JJm credits. Every one of these shirts is a walking ad for the nation's biggest chain stores. Write Albert Prow, Eagle the picture. For names of local dealers write Chester Roman, Rubber Company, Ashland, Ohio. Flagg-Roman Co., 93 Worth St., New York City. Jackie Robinson Key Ring: A colorful item Jackie Robinson Belt And Wallet: Set sold in thousands of stores. Full information on local help to go into vast national distribution at the same time as na¬ from M. Buroway, Congress Products, 208 E. 23rd St., N.Y.C. tional release date of "The Jackie Robinson Story." These will be backed with extensive national advertising and full- Jackie Robinson Desk, Home Products: color local dealer dsplays. Contact Irving Aronson, D. H. One of the nation's largest manufacturers is turning out a Newman Co., 1107 Broadway, New York City. complete line of trophies, plaques, ashtrays, bookends, Jackie Robinson Doll: This doll is fully attired clocks, lucky pieces and banks (both musical and non-musi¬ in a Brooklyn Dodger uniform. The manufacturer is a top cal). Sales of these items will be pegged right to openings advertiser in national magazines and newspapers all over with extensive national and local newspaper promotions the country. Plenty of local outlets everywhere. Write Eugene already working. For full information write David Green¬ Glowa, Allied Grand Dolls, 200 Fifth Ave., New York City. house, Arlen Trophy Company, 42 W. 28th St., New York City.

Jackie Robinson Baseball Game: Thou- Jackie Robinson Premiums: Several Jackie sands of these have been sold and are being sold through Robinson items have been made up as merchandise premi¬ the top toy and game stores. A national magazine ad for ums. Many of these are being utilized by top concerns and this game includes aim credits. Write E. H. Gluck, Gotham are available to theatres as giveaways and contest prizes ^eel Press Corp., 200 Fifth Ave., New York City. at special rates. They include a "Jackie Robinson Baseball Jackie Robinson Sweater And Swim Game" to be ordered from Bob Weil, Advertisers Service Trunks: Set for big local displays and lots of ad space. Division, 118 E. 25th St., New York, N. Y. and a "Jackie Rob¬ For local co-operation write Bill Appleby, Pauker Boyswear inson Score Book" available from Paul Zitell, 305 Washing¬ Co., 25 West 34th St., New York City. ton St., Brooklyn, N. Y. ...because it's the story of a man who fought against overwhelming odds with America's greatest weapons ...a ball, a bat and a glove!

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as “Branch Rickey" of "Anna Lucasta” Fame 1 RICHARD LANE and Billy Wayne as "Clyde Sukeforth" Louise Beavers • Ben Lessy Directed by ALFRED E. GREEN who gave you “The JolSOtl Story’ Produced by Mort Briskin Written for the screen by Lawrence Taylor and Arthur Mann fcWj. An Eagle Lion Films Release

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Page Ten *

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as "Branch Rickey” of "Anna Lucasta” Fame as "Clay Hopper” of the gnd “ Royals" Billy Wayne as "Clyde Sukeforth” • Louise Beavers Ben Lessy Directed by ALFRED E. GREEN who gave you “The Jolson Story" Written for the screen by .Lawrence Taylor and Arthur Mann Produced by MORT BRISKIN • An Eagle Lion Films Release

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ADVERTISING INDEX 4 COLUMN ADS . ..On Pages 10, 11, 12 3 COLUMN ADS. . On Pages 13, 14, 2 COLUMN ADS . On Pages 15, 16, 1 COLUMN ADS. . .. On Page 17

Page Eleven J o

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Page Twelve THREE COLUMN ADS START HERE....

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NOT BE FANCY... ms TOOK ^ •" •* ‘■%v OUTS! “They’ll shout insults at you ... they’ll come in to you spikes first ... they’ll throw at your head ... but no matter what happens — remember — you can’t fight back!”

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MINOR WATSON as "Branch Rickey" of "Anna lucasta" Fame • as "Clay Hopper" of the Lets not be fancy... and "Montreal Royals" Billy Wayne as “Clyde Sukeforth"- Louise Beavers • Ben Lessy Directed by ALFRED E. GREEN who gave you "The Jolson Story” Produced by Mort Briskin • Written for the screen by mis took outs! Lawrence Taylor and Arthur Mann »An Eagle Lion Films Release

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MINOR WATSON Yes, only in America could “BRANCH5 RICKEY” a man have the courage, the will and the greatness to face such overwhelming odds JACKIE ROBINSON with only a ball... a bat... “HIMSELF” THE THRILL OF THE _ and a glove—and win! WORLD’S GREATEST SPORT ^ ERIE ROBINSON "The Pride ol Brooklyn" as HIMSEIF in TP aiimlB; 4

with Ruby DEE • Minor WATSON • Louise BEAVERS • Richard LANE Films Release

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Page Fifteen n

It Had To Be!

... because it's the story of a man who fought against overwhelming odds with America's greatest weapons ... a ball, a bat and a glove!

JACKIE ROBINSON1 "The Pride of Brooklyn" as H, THE JACKIE ROBINSON STORY with MINOR WATSON • RUBY DEE as "Branch Rickey’’ of "Anna Lucasta” Fame RICHARD LANE ^ and Billy Wayne as "Clyde Sukeforth” Louise Beavers*Ben Lessy

Produced by Mort Briskin • Written for the screen by Lawrence Taylor and Arthur Mann An Eagle Lion Films Release

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Page Sixteen ALL ONE COLUMN ADS HERE . . . .

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I Col. Ad Mat 105—65 Lines ROBINSON "The Pride of Brooklyn" as HIMSELF in “JACKIE I Col. Ad Mat 106—75 Lines

with RUBY DEE • MINOR WATSON LOUISE BEAVERS • RICHARD LANE I08IHS0N and BILLY WAYNE • BEN LESSY Written lor the screen by Lawrence Taylor and Arthur Mann • Produced by Mort Briskin Directed by Alfred E. Green who gave you "The Jolson Story" STOCTL An Eagle Lion Films Release

with RUBY DEE • MINOR WATSON LOUISE BEAVERS • RICHARD LANE I Col. Ad Mat 108—I 15 Lines and BILLY WAYNE • BEN LESSY Vritlen (or the screen by Lawrence Taylor nd Arthur Mann • Produced by Mort Briskin Directed by Allred E. Green who gave you “The Jolson Story" An Eagle Lion Films Release

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An Eagle Lion Films Release

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Page Seventeen Robinson, 4-Letter Man, ‘The Jackie Robinson Story’ See Page 22 Drama of Great Sportsman For Star of ‘Robinson Story ’ The plan to film the life of Jackie Robinson came about In the success story of Jackie Robinson, Brooklyn when Lawrence Taylor, a screen writer, first saw him mak¬ Sports Page Dodger who was named the National ing a public appearance at the Million Dollar Theatre in League’s Most Valuable Player of 1949, and who will Los Angeles in 1946—after his first year in organized base¬ Specials soon be seen on the screen in the title role of himself in ball. Taylor talked to Jackie and told him that he’d like “The Jackie Robinson Story,” which Eagle Lion Films to write his life story and be¬ will release . at the . lieved it would be popular as a Theatre, can certainly be found motion picture. Robinson didn’t proof of the theory that athletics think that he was important Robinson Trained well and honestly played in youth, enough for such a happening but will produce an outstanding man. agreed to let Taylor try. Thus All-Around Athlete was born the idea for the Eagle For Picture Part By now everybody who reads a Lion Films release which will daily newspaper knows of Jackie open this . at the . As for Real Game Robinson’s achievements as a pro¬ Theatre, called “The Jackie Rob¬ fessional ballplayer, which form inson Story.” Strict training rules were fol¬ the basis of “The Jackie Robin¬ Writes Jackie’s Life lowed by baseball star Jackie son Story,” but not so many peo¬ With Jackie’s permission, Tay¬ Robinson during the filming of ple know that as a youngster, lor wrote the true story of his “The Jackie Robinson Story,” in Robinson was just as outstanding life, taking it from early child¬ which the famous second base- an all-around sporting figure as hood through to his success with man plays himself. Unless other¬ he is today. At Muir Technical the Brooklyn Dodgers. Taylor wise needed for publicity inter¬ High School in Pasadena, Cal., he spent months digging up old views, radio talks or dialogue re¬ was a four-letter man, and later, newspaper records, discussing hearsal, the Dodger infielder was as a student at Pasadena Junior Jackie’s life with Jack’s brother, in bed each night at 7:30 during College, he was the star of the Mack, and his mother, Mrs. Mal- his stay in Hollywood. And he football, basketball and baseli ,151 lie Robinson; then did the same was on the set each morning no teams. with Jackie’s wife, Rae, and her later than eight o’clock. Scores On Gridiron family. In addition, Jackie watched his After winning an athletic schol¬ There were many obstacles and diet closely, eating only what he arship at UCLA, Robinson con¬ difficulties, both in getting the would normally eat when in tinued his whirlwind pace. He story in script form, and, once training. This included lots of soon became the Champion of completed, in getting it into pro¬ eggs, milk, meat and green vege¬ Champions — in football he led duction. This had to be revised or tables. No sweets, except ice the nation’s ground-gainers in deleted; that had to be added; cream. 1938 with an average of 12 yards this producer had a commitment; As a result, when Jackie left per play and made several All- that producer didn’t want to for Vero Beach, Florida, where American teams; in 1940-41, as make a picture about sports. And the Brooklyn Dodgers were in a basketball star, he was high so it went. training, he was in excellent scorer in the Southern Division physical condition, and only a few Story Clicks of the Pacific Coast Conference pounds overweight. with an average of 12 points per Finally the story clicked with “The Jackie Robinson Story” game; he reached the quarter¬ William J. Heineman, vice-presi- which was directed by Alfred E. finals in the Southern California ident in charge of distribution of Green opens .at the Negro Tennis Tournament; took Eagle Lion Films. He optioned Theatre. up golf as relaxation and consist¬ the story and Robinson’s services ently scored in the low 70’s. Rob¬ as an actor to portray himself on inson’s greatest thrill in amateur the screen. Heineman felt that if Cast as Rickey sports came when, in college com¬ the picture were done honestly petition, his broad jump of 25 and with good production values Branch Rickey, the colorful feet 6 inches broke the previous it would be a credit to everyone president of the Brooklyn Dodg¬ record which had been set by his concerned. ers baseball team is played by brother, Mack. Alfred E. Green, director of screen veteran Minor Watson in “The Jolson Story,” read and “The Jackie Robinson Story,” Owes Success to Youth liked the script, and agreed to which is being released by Eagle It’s a pretty terrific back¬ direct the picture. This also hap¬ Lion Films and will be shown ground of sports which Robins^') pened with Mort Briskin, the here starting at the can look back on in his younger producer, and other key person¬ Theatre. days—and it’s a pretty strong nel. The famed second baseman will testimonial to their value in later portray himself in the film while life that he himself is the first to Once in production, Robinson Mat 2D Still JR 121 proved to be completely capable others in the prominent cast in¬ admit that much of whatever as an actor, showed no traces of Jackie Robinson, the National League’s Most Valuable Player and clude Ruby Dee, Louise Beavers success had come to him or will self-consciousness—the thing that star second baseman of the Brooklyn Dodgers, plays himself in the and Richard Lane. William J. come to him in the future can be has usually defeated sports fig¬ film version of his exciting life, “The Jackie Robinson Story,” which Heineman was executive producer traced back to the days when he ures who tried to turn actor. is slated to open.at the.Theatre. and Alfred E. Green directed. was learning to play ball.

Story Treatment The Cast The Credits . (Not for Publication) Jackie Robinson . . JACKIE ROBINSON Jewel Productions, Inc., presents Jackie Rob¬ This is the story of a great sportsman—Jackie Rob Rae Robinson.RUBY DEE inson, “The Pride of Brooklyn,” as Himself inson, who made his spectacular climb to the top the in “THE JACKIE ROBINSON STORY.” Mrs. Robinson .... LOUISE BEAVERS hard way—the American way—with a bat, a ball and Written for the screen by Lawrence Taylor glove. The picture which stars the top-notch second Mack Robinson.JOEL FLUELLEN and Arthur Mann. Story by Louis Pollock. baseman himself shows how the four-letter athlete of Clyde Sukeforth.BILLY WAYNE UCLA stepped into the world of professional sports and Music score, Herschel Burke Gilbert. Orches¬ how, with the help of his friends, overcame almost un- Branch Rickey.MINOR WATSON tral arrangements, Joseph Mullendore. Music surmountable odds, went on to break record after Ernie .BERNIE HAMILTON supervision, David Chudnow. Associate pro¬ record, culminating in his being named the Most Valu¬ Hopper .RICHARD LANE ducer, Joseph H. Nadel. Director of photog¬ able Player in the National League. Bill Spaulding .... BILL SPAULDING raphy, Ernest Laszlo, ASC. Production de¬ It shows how his wife (Ruby Dee) inspired him to signed by Boris Leven. Film editor, Arthur continue when the going got tough and he was ready Shorty.BENLESSY H. Nadel. Set decorator, Jack Mapes. Assist¬ to call it quits. It shows how Branch Rickey (Minor Tigers’ Mgr. . . KENNY WASHINGTON Watson) president of the Brooklyn Dodgers, had Karpen .PAT FLAHERTY ant director, Maurie M. Suess. Costumes by enough confidence in Jackie as a fine ball player to be Umpire.LARRY McGRATH Maria Donovan. Makeup artist, Dave Jay¬ dissuaded by any threats of racial prejudice. .EMMETT SMITH son. Sound recording, Ben Winkler and Mac And best of all, “The Jackie Robinson Story” shows Jackie, as a boy Dalgleish. Produced by Mort Briskin. Direc¬ Jackie at his best—on the ball field—running, sliding, ted by Alfred E. Green. An Eagle Lion Films stealing in the form that has made him the nation’s HOWARD LOUIS MacNEELY release. number one sports figure. Bill.GEORGE DOCKSTADER

Page Eighteen Pal, Brother Debut Make Sports Movie With Robinson To Keep in Trim All a baseball player has to do tfi Picture Biog to keep in training between sea¬ sons is get himself cast in a pic¬ J a c k i e Robinson, Brooklyn’s ture. For further proof of the great second baseman, may be a rigors accompanying movie-mak¬ top man in his league today, yet ing just ask Jackie Robinson who for many years he played second stars as himself in Eagle Lion’s fiddle to his brother, Mack, a “The Jackie Robinson Story,” which will open . at the great track performer and Olym¬ . Theatre. pics Games medal winner. And After only a three-week stint Mack wasn’t the only one Jackie before the cameras, he had been played second fiddle to. Another given such a workout that he was only a few pounds over his play¬ was Kenny Washington, one of ing weight of 196 pounds. In fact, the greatest football players ever Jackie stated that the running he produced in the West. Jackie did and the base stealing neces¬ started out at UCLA in the shad¬ sary for the camera, worked him ows of his colleague and school¬ as hard as any training schedule, often harder. The reason—many mate, Kenny. scenes had to be shot over and Both Mack and Kenny appear over again because of varying with Jackie in “The Jackie Rob¬ camera angles, not to mention inson Story,” which is due to the number of times a piece of open this . at the . business had to be shot over again because it didn’t look just Theatre through Eagle Lion right for the cameras. Films release. Kenny portrays Wiliam J. Heineman was ex¬ the of a baseball team. ecutive producer for “The Jackie Mack does a small bit as an en¬ Robinson Story,” which Alfred E. thusiastic Dodger rooter. Both Green directed. are rooting for Jackie’s success in the film in which he plays him¬ self. All-Star Team “The Jackie Robinson Story,” Mat 3A Still JR P114 was produced under the aegis of Shown above are four of the top players in “The Jackie Robinson Story,” which will open Many well-known baseball play¬ ers are included among the team William J. Heineman. Mort Bris- . at the . Theatre, via Eagle Lion Films release. They are: Richard Lane as Clay Hopper, Ruby Dee as Jackie’s wife, Jackie as himself and Minor Watson as Branch Rickey. members of the several nines kin was the producer and Alfred which appear on the playing fields E. Green the director. in “The Jackie Robinson Story,” opening.at the. Theatre. Robinson plays himself Dodger’s Arthur Mann OK’s Things W ere T ough in the picture. Among these ball players are For Young Jackie Ed Chandler of the Brooklyn Gridiron Featured ‘The Jackie Robinson Story’ Dodgers, Lou Stringer of the Boston Red Sox, Peanuts Lowry There are good reasons why The right to stop the cameras any time he thought a of the , Gene Jackie Robinson is deeply con¬ Mauch of the Boston Braves, In Baseball Film scene was not authentic—that was the authority vested in cerned with problems of under¬ Frank Kelleher, and Cliff Football as well as baseball Arthur Mann, assistant to Branch Rickey, president of the privileged youngsters. He was one Aberson of the Hollywood Stars, was well represented in the play¬ himself, and not so many years Albie Glossop of the Los Angeles ers’ line-up for scenes in “The Brooklyn Dodgers, when Mann came to Hollywood to act ago, either. Angels, Bill Manny, Meridian, Jackie Robinson Story,” which as a technical supervisor for ‘‘The Jackie Robinson Story, Mississippi, A1 Stringer, Roches¬ will open . at the . Eagle Lion’s film story of the The Dodger second baseman, ter, Vic Marsco, formerly of the Theatre through Eagle Lion famed second baseman’s rise to who plays himself in “The Jackie Pueblo, Colorado team and now Films release. Dodger rookie, Pat Flah¬ the position of the nation’s top Robinson Story,” an Eagle Lion Gridiron elevens from UCLA, erty, former Boston Red Sox Films release, which will open USC, Loyola, Pepperdine College, man in the world of sports. The pitcher, Fred Millikan, scout for Los Angeles Rams and the Detroit picture will open . at the at the . Theatre, Pittsburgh, and Mike Donovan, Lions had members among the . Theatre. was a member of a large family one time Philadelphia Athletics football and baseball players ap¬ supported by his mother. His to liner. Was Newsman pearing in the picture. Baseball home in Pasadena, California was nines represented included Phil¬ Mann, who also shares screen anything but luxurious. As a re¬ adelphia Athletics, Brooklyn writing credit with Lawrence Dodgers (besides Robinson), Bos¬ sult, the youthful Jackie, unlike Taylor, covered sports for the old 'Robinson’ Here ton Red Sox, Boston Braves, his more sheltered schoolmates, The thrill-packed saga of the , Los Angeles New York World and later the had his troubles. His hardships sports world’s most thrilling fig¬ Angels, Hollywood Stars, Chi¬ New York Tribune before it be¬ in growing up make him instinc¬ ure—Jackie Robinson is unfolded cago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds and came the Herald-Tribune. He tively concerned with others in all its true glory in “The Jackie t«| teams from many other sec- then joined the Evening World faced by the same trials and trib¬ Robinson Story,” which is due to tWns of the country. as a baseball writer, and subse¬ ulations. Jackie wants to help open here .at the. quently became one of the most them—and off-season does, as a William J. Heineman acted as famous of sports writers. member of Harlem’s YMCA’s. Theatre, through Eagle Lion executive producer for “The Films release. Jackie Robinson Story,” which He later met and became very Furthermore, this work with The finest hitter, runner and features Ruby Dee, Minor Wat¬ friendly with Branch Rickey. One underprivileged youngsters is base-stealer in the National son and Richard Lane in addition day Rickey told him that he had what Jackie plans to continue League will relive his greatest to the star second baseman who just signed up a top-notch ball¬ with after quitting baseball. It feats before the camera’s eye as appears as himself. player, who incidentally happen¬ is why he is saving money now. he portrays himself in the film. ed to be a Negro, and from that There is never enough of it go Others in the cast include Ruby time on there was never a step in around for salaries in the field Dee, Minor Watson, Louise Beav¬ the Robinson situation about which seeks to prevent juveniles ers and Richard Lane. Alfred E. which Mann didn’t know. from becoming delinquent. Green directed. Friends It was therefore natural that Branch Rickey would turn the On the screen they hoot film situation over to him when Mat IB Still JR 73 and boo him. In real life the proper time came. Wliat This Country Needs . . . they are among his most Minor Watson as Branch Rickey Guarantees Authenticity ardent fans. congratulates Jackie Robinson in There are few things character actor Minor Watson dis¬ likes more than cigar smoking. Yet for his scenes in “The The four are Dewey Rob¬ Mann came to Hollywood with a scene from “The Jackie Robin¬ inson, Joe Devlin, Dick Wes- a batch of material in his posses¬ Jackie Robinson Story,” in which he plays Branch Rickey, son Story,” which will open .... sel and Ben Weldon, screen sion. William J. Heineman, ex¬ president of the Brooklyn Dodgers, the veteran actor bad men, who bedevil Jackie ecutive producer of “The Jackie at the .Theatre. Robinson smoked an average of seven cigars each day. The reason: Robinson in key scenes for Robinson Story,” signed a con¬ plays himself in the film. Branche Rickey is seldom seen awake without a cigar in “The Jackie Robinson tract with Mann which guaran¬ his mouth or hand, and Watson was determined to be in Story” which will open teed authenticity to the story. character. The picture opens . at the . at the . Mann then got together with pro¬ Theatre through Eagle Lion Films release. Theatre, with Robinson ducer Mort Briskin, director Al¬ Alma Mater Other mannerisms which make Rickey lifelike on the playing himself in the pic¬ fred E. Green and screen writer screen were learned bv Watson during several visits with Pasadena City College was the ture. Lawrence Taylor. The result was Rickey, whom he knew in New York long before he ever Off the screen all four a script that pulled no punches. locale from the first few days had an idea he might play the great baseball figure on the arc ardent baseball and foot¬ However, and again on Branch shooting of “The Jackie Robin¬ screen. ball fans and rooted for Rickey’s insistence, there were no son Story,” starring the great Arthur Mann, Branch Rickey’s assistant, helped, too, Apckie when he played foot- short cuts or sacrifice of base¬ player himself, which will open insisting that Rickey, as well as Robinson, he portrayed oall for UCLA and have fol¬ ball’s position for dramatic effect as true to life as possible. lowed his career in baseball or suspense. .at the.Theatre In The Jackie Robinson Story,” which was directed closely and enthusiastically. through Eagle Lion Films release. In addition to Jackie Robinson, by Alfred E. Green, Robinson appears as himself, with “The Jackie Robinson It was at this school, then called who plays himself in the picture, Ruby Dee, Louise Beavers and Richard Lane in the sup¬ Story” is being released by the Pasadena Junior College, that Ruby Dee, Louise Beavers, Minor porting cast. William J. Heineman acted as executive pro¬ Eagle Lion Films. Jackie Robinson first started his Watson and Richard Lane are athletic career— as a trackman, ducer for the film. featured. basketball and football player.

Po.ge Nineteen Brash Branch Rickey Robinson Sets Seven Rules See Page 22 Shown in Baseball Yarn For Success in Sports World For fy The movies have now adopted the policy of “if you There are seven cardinal principals to be followed if can’t beat ’em—join ’em” in regard to the fabulous Branch Sports Page you want to go places in the world of sports, according to Rickey. Jackie Robinson, ace Brooklyn Dodger second baseman For years baseball men have been saying that Rickey’s Specials and “Most Valuable Player in the National League,” who many sided character eclipses anything ever dreamed up portrays himself in “The Jackie Robinson Story,” re¬ leased by Eagle Lion Films and by a scenario writer. So instead coming . to the of trying to top Rickey, Holly¬ Theatre. wood has put him on the screen Rivals Meet Again First and foremost, is the as a leading character in “The matter of education. I advise everyone to go as far as possible Jackie Robinson Story,” opening On Baseball Team in school. Not everybody who tries . at the . Theatre can make the grade in profes¬ via Eagle Lion Films release. sional sports. Possessed of In ‘Robinson’ Film education, those who fail have Watson Meets Rickey something to fall back on and Though Brooklyn’s famed sec¬ The script of “The Jackie Rob¬ chances are they’ll succeed something else. ond baseman plays himself in the inson Story” called for the Na¬ picture, well-known character tional League’s Most Valuable Try All Sports actor Minor Witson was chosen Player to slide into second base. Second, avoid excess drinking or smoking or any habit that to depict the fabulous “Mahatma The second baseman was to give might prove detrimental to your the Dodger a working over. The of Flatbush.” health or general well-being. “I never had so many things to pummeler was George Murphy, Third, try all sports, but make learn about a part,” says Watson. ex-Trojan and Don football play¬ up your mind as soon as possible “Branch Rickey’s gestures, for er. on your goal and then do every¬ thing with that in sight. It’s fine instance. There are so many of Everything went off beautiful¬ to be an all-around athlete, but them. ly. Director Alfred E. Green was not if you let it interfere with “For example, I had to do the quite happy with the scene which your education. match trick, for which he is noted. Fourth, listen to advice from “By the match trick, I’m sup- is a key factor in the Eagle Lion many sources as possible. posted to light a match and keep Films release scheduled to open Weigh it all and take the best. it burning while talking. By this . at the . Theatre. Fifth, learn to take orders. ruse, I make sure that my listener But Robinson picked himself up And that’s hooked right up with doesn’t interrupt. He’s so con¬ off the ground ruefully and mut¬ teamwork. There can be only one cerned with the lighted match boss. Follow orders and direc¬ that he’s worried I’ll burn my¬ tered: “Couldn’t they hire a tions. Co-operate with those self. The secret is to avoid one- UCLA guy—who wouldn’t be so around you. That’s the only road alarm fires. Actually, I never enthusiastic. These Trojans used that gets anywhere. light the cigar. It’s merely a to do this to me all the time.” Rickey characteristic.” Lose Gracefully Robinson had played football Sixth, be able to accept defeat. Watson Meets Rickey for UCLA. The Trojans were Somebody has to lose everytime Minor Watson met Rickey long their greatest rivals. somebody else wins. Give it every¬ before he ever knew he would thing you have got. Then if you Ruby Dee, New York stage ac¬ portray the Dodger prexy on the Still JR 74 lose, why, there’s nothing to be screen. It was when Watson was tress of “Anna Lucasta” fame, ashamed of. portraying a politician in “State portrays Jackie Robinson’s wife Minor Watson, in the part of Branch Rickey, , fives Jackie Robin- ‘Seventh, when you’re not com¬ son a stiff lecture in “The Jackie Robinson Story,’' which is due next of the Union.” Rickey saw the in the film, and Louise Beavers, peting, get into some sort of . at the.Theatre. supervised activity, in or out of play and invited Watson to Eb- his mother. Executive producer bets Field. The two saw a ball sports. It’s the idle fellows who of the film is William J. Heine¬ game together. get into mischief.” Just for fun, on the set, to see man with Mort Briskin acting as The Jackie Robinson Story” how realistic he was getting in producer. Green directed from a _ _ was directed by Alfred E. Green,” the role, Minor Watson said screenplay by Lawrence Taylor Dllhl/ MPOCtO MPP with William J. Heineman as ex- something out of the corner of It Had To Be Real l\UUj LUUCIDIP Uuu ecutive producer and Mort Bris- and Arthur Mann. his mouth the way Rickey fre¬ kin as producer. The picture fea- quently does. A major league lll ‘Pnhincnn xtnru tures Ruby Dee, Minor Watson, baseball player who was working Even for Screen III ItUUIIIuUII JIUI J Louise Beavers and Richard Lane. in the picture was standing near¬ by. In his best Rickey manner, Ruby Dee, who won wide popu¬ Watson whispered in the ball Small Fry Gr Jackie No Do lar acclaim for her performance in the stage play, “Anna Lucas¬ player’s direction: It had to be baseball or Jackie Playing opposite huge ta,” played her first dramatic “Brooklyn could use a good Robinson wanted no part of it. Jackie Robinson was in role at the • age of 10—as a boy .” This was during the filming of character for tiny Ruby in a grammar school play. She The player turned and said: “The Jackie Robinson Story,” Dee, who portrays the screen wore her brother’s pants. “Darned if that doesn’t sound just opening.at the. wife of that great baseball like Branch Rickey.” Theatre, in which the famous Even at that early age, Ruby’s player in the film story of Jackie Robinson plays himself second baseman appears as him¬ ambition was the stage, and had his life, which will open in the Eagle Lion feature for self. started a course of dramatic in . at the . which William J. Heineman was While baseball scenes were be¬ struction, encouraged by her Theatre through Eagle Lion executive producer. Alfred E. ing shot, Robinson turned thumbs mother, who had also wanted to Green directed from a script by Films release. down on any plays—no matter be an actress. Lawrence Taylor and Arthur Although she barely how spectacular they looked to Ruby plays the wife of Jackie Mann. stretches to a five feet one, the camera—if they weren’t those Robinson in the film version of she has never played oppo¬ he would normally make. the great baseball player’s life site anyone who stood under Because of this, each baseball story which stars the whiz second six feet in height—on stage playing scene was thoroughly dis¬ baseman himself and opens Mr. and Mrs. or screen. Furthermore, her cussed between Jackie, Producer at the.Theatre. “The Jackie husband, New York stage Mort Briskin, Director Alfred E. Robinson Story” is an Eagle Lion actor Ossie Davis, stands Green and Technical Supervisor Films release. William J. Heine¬ well over the six foot limit. Arthur Mann, the latter assistant man acted in the capacity of ex¬ to Branch Rickey, president of “The Jackie Robinson ecutive producer and Mort Bris¬ the Brooklyn Dodgers. The net Story” was directed by Al¬ kin as producer. Alfred E. Green result is authentic baseball scenes. fred E. Green of “The Jol- directed from a script by Law¬ William J. Heineman is execu son Story” fame. William rence Taylor and Arthur Mann. tive producer of “The Jackie Mat 1A Still JR 121 J. Heineman was executive Robinson Story,” which is being producer of the film and Jackie Robinson, famous released by Eagle Lion Films. Al¬ Mort Briskin the producer. Brooklyn Dodger second baseman, fred E. Green, famous for “The Director Green is cast as the star of his film biog¬ Jolson Story,” directed the pic¬ raphy, “The Jackie Robinson ture. The supporting cast in¬ Director Alfred E. Green, who Story,” which will open. cludes Ruby Dee, Minor Watson, scored high both with the critics at the.Theatre. Louise Beavers and Richard Lane. and public for his work on “The Team Mates Jolson Story,” directed another true-to life drama of a great per players of sonality—Jackie Robinson. Going Tough Training top calibre were used to portray from the most dynamic showman Jackie Robinson’s team mates in In the action-packed athletic to the most dramatic personality “The Jackie Robinson Story,” Louise Beavers scenes for “The Jackie Robinson of the sports world, Green direc¬ which will open . at the Cast as the mother of Jackie Story,” which will have its local ted Robinson as the star of his . Theatre. Some of them Robinson in “The Jackie Robin¬ debut this . at the . own film, “The Jackie Robinson are Ed Chandler of the Brooklyn son Story,” which opens at the Theatre through Eagle Lj.-n Story,” which will open . Dodgers, Lou Stringer of the .Theatre on. next, Films release, Robinson, sliduig, at the . Theatre through Mat 1C Still JR 2 Boston Red Sox, Peanuts Lowry is Louise Beavers, noted for her hitting and running for the cam¬ Eagle Lion Films release. Ruby Dee, of “Anna Lucasta” of the Cincinnati Reds and Gene fine character portrayals over a eras, received a workout equal to stage play fame, is cast opposite Mauch of the Boston Braves. period of many years. Robinson The picture for which William anything he would have received Jackie Robinson as his wife in The picture was produced un¬ plays himself while Minor Watson J. Heineman acted as executive in actual spring training. “The Jackie Robinson Story,” der the supervision of William J. is cast as the president of that producer features Ruby Dee, Ruby Dee is cast with Jackie soon to open at the . Heineman with Alfred E. Green sometime unmanageable team Minor Watson, Louise Beavers as his wife in the film which was Theatre. as director. the Brooklyn Dodgers. and Richard Lane. 'directed by Alfred E. Green.

Page Twenty Robinson Will Swap Bat All-Around Athlete’s Life on Screen For Welfare Work With‘Y’

Although Jackie Robinson wants to play baseball as long as he can, he does not intend to wind up his career by slipping back through the minor leagues. “When I have to step out of the majors, I’ll go into YMCA work,” the great Dodger second baseman avers. And there is reason for it. He believes he must set an example for the youngsters he hopes to First Time at Bat help keep out of trouble in the work he has chosen to follow For Film Director when he quits organized baseball. Follow Heroes Although baseball has been screen director Alfred E. Green’s “Kids are hero worshipers. I favorite sport since early youth, was one, when a boy,” says Rob¬ “The Jackie Robinson Story,” inson, who portrays himself in which will open . at the Eagle Lion’s “The Jackie Robin¬ . Theatre through Eagle son Story,” which will open .... Lion Films release, was the first at the.Theatre. of his many directorial assign¬ “They must follow someone they ments to feature a ball playing can really admire—and a major theme. league baseball player falls into Green once played semi-pro the pattern. It will be easier to baseball in California and was a talk to boys, advise them and get close friend of the late John Mc- them to do the right thing if they Graw, famed manager of the New feel the advice comes from some¬ York Giants. Green usually spent one out of the big time,” adds part of each summer as a guest Jackie. at the Giant training camp. William J. Heineman was ex¬ Jackie Robinson plays himself ecutive producer of the film which in the picture, with Ruby Dee, was written by Lawrence Taylor of the New York stage, portray¬ and Arthur Mann. Alfred E. ing his wife. Louise Beavers is Green of “The Jolson Story” cast as Jackie’s mother. Alfred fame, directed the picture which E. Glreen directed the picture Mort Briskin produced. for which William J. Heineman Ruby Dee of the New York was executive producer from a stage plays Jackie’s wife and script by Lawrence Taylor and Louise Beavers his mother. Minor Arthur Mann. Watson portrays Branch Rickey, president of the Brooklyn Dodg¬ ers and Richard Lane plays Clay Jackie Robinson Hopper, the manager of the Mon¬ treal Royals, Dodger “farm club” where Robinson started.in organ¬ Touts Teamwork ized baseball. “The Jackie Robinson Story,” stars Jackie himself, the four-letter college man who took the world Although 1949 found Jackie of professional sports by storm and inspired the youth of the country. The picture, an Eagle Lion Robinson being voted the most Films release, opens . at the . Theatre. valuable player in the National League, the Brooklyn Dodger Dollars and Sense second baseman prefers to be Filmdom’s Busiest Actor Washington Meets known as a team man. Because Branch Rickey, owner His only comment on his great of the Brooklyn Dodgers, insisted 1949 season is: “It wasn’t me on authenticity, film producer Featured in ‘Robinson ’ Robinson Again alone; we just had a great ball Mort Briskin saved several thou¬ club.” sand dollars in production costs If an “Oscar” were awarded for the busiest actor, Robinson, who stars in “The on “The Jackie Robinson Story,” Richard Lane, would get it without a shadow of doubt. Before the Cameras Jackie Robinson Story,” Eagle opening. at the. Lion release coming . to His role in Eagle Lion Films’ picture about the sports Theatre. They were intense rivals on the the . Theatre, also has Rickey air-expressed to the world’s most spectacular figure, “The Jackie Robinson college gridiron and baseball great praise for Manager Burt Hollywood producer 50 Dodger Shotton. Story,” is his 300th film. The picture, starring baseball’s diamond, but years later, on a uniforms to be worn by the base¬ “Mr. Shotton is a wonderful ball players who appear in the movie set, their feeling for fair most valuable player himself, is man. It’s a pleasure to play for film, as well as 50 uniforms of the play showed them up as friends scheduled to open here . him.” Montreal Club where the Dodger —Jackie Robinson, great Dodger at the . Theatre. As for Branch Rickey, bossman second baseman was “farmed out” second baseman, and Kenny of the Brooklyn Dodgers, Jackie’s prior to coming into the big When Richard Lane landed in Washington, great Western foot¬ vocal reaction is simple: “The league. Hollywood in 1937, he had an im¬ ball name. greatest man I know.” These uniforms cost $75 each, portant decision to make—wheth¬ The two athletes worked to¬ Discussing his latest contract with lettering and all. If manufac¬ er to try for big parts and take gether during the filming of he tells that Branch Rickey called tured in Hollywood they would them as they came along or be “The Jackie Robinson Story,” re¬ him in and the whole matter was have cost $125 each. finished in three minutes. If he Jackie Robinson plays himself 1. content with medium salaried leased by Eagle Lion Films, and opening.at the. was a holdout, as some persons in the film which Eagle Lion re¬ parts that would keep him con¬ Theatre. In the film, for which reported, it was the shortest hold¬ leased. Alfred E. Green (of “Jol¬ stantly busy. Lane, possessed of William J. Heineman acted as out on record. son Story” fame) directs. a dynamic personality and a dis¬ executive producer, Robinson por¬ like for inactivity, decided on the trays himself. Washington plays latter course for his film career. the manager of a baseball team. The advisability of his choice is indicated by his record for the When cast for his role, Kenny last 12 years, during which time Washington was asked about he has averaged 24 screen roles his real name in the picture cred¬ each year. its. He refused with, “This is Jackie’s picture. I just want to Always in Demand be a member of his team.” He is always greatly in demand Jackie, in turn, when informed on the set, having won the repu¬ that Washington was going to tation of ace raconteur of the try for organized baseball with studios (he uses all accents and the majors said, “I’m sure going dialects ably), and is known for to be cheering for him” — and his very rapid dialogue delivery. then, thoughtfully—“That is un¬ Lane is a great sports enthusi¬ till he makes it. Then it -will be ast (a fine asset when working in everyman for himself. Just like a picture like “The Jackie Robin¬ Play Must Be when we went to school.” son Story.”) He is a rabid base¬ ball and football fan and can of¬ On Up And Up ten be seen at the night games. Fourth Talent He is a self-appointed “fixer” Jackie Robinson, who portrays Jackie Robinson, who excells in of things and frequently makes himself in “The Jackie Robinson minor repairs around the house track, football and of course, base¬ Story,” which will open . ball, adds still another to his list which all too often then become at the.Theatre through of achievements—acting. In the major jobs for someone else. Eagle Lion Films release, insisted forthcoming Eagle Lion Films Among his most recent films that the baseball scenes be true to release, “The Jackie Robinson are “Take Me Out To The Ball life and turned thumbs down on Story,” which will open . • Game,” “The Big Wheel” and any play, regardless of how spec¬ at the. Theatre, he plays “Quicksand.” tacular it might seem to the cam¬ the role of—Jackie Robinson. “The Jackie Robinson Story” eras, if it weren’t one he would Mat 2A Still JR 32 was directed by Alfred E. Green normally make. As a result each Ruby Dee of “Anna Lucasta” Jackie Robinson addresses team mates in this scene from “The and produced by Mort Briskin, scene was thoroughly discussed stage fame is cast as his wife in Jackie Robinson Story,” which will open.at the. with William J. Heineman acting beforehand with the producer, the film directed by Alfred (“Jol- Theatre. Alfred E. Green directed the film for which William J. as executive producer. director and technical supervisor. son Story”) E. Green. Heineman acted as executive producer.

Page Tiventy-one SPORTS PAGE SPECIALS

Robinson Learned How to Hit That Ball ‘THE JACKIE Knack of Slugging ROBINSON STORY’ From Famed Sisler Just being a good athlete isn’t Jackie Robinson’s middle initial is “R,” standing for enough if one wants top rank in Roosevelt according to his birth certificate. But judging the playing field, according to by his accomplishments in four years in organized base¬ Jackie Robinson who plays himself ball he might well have been christened Jackie “Record” in “The Jackie Robinson Story,” Eagle Lion release opening . Robinson. at the Theatre. One must be The star second sacker of the able to listen to and absorb the Brooklyn Dodgers has piled up advice of those in the know. enough top marks to give a work¬ M. Y. P. Jackie credits George Sisler out to even the most diligent fig¬ with bringing him from modest ure filbert. He is now also a .286 and .297 averages during his movie star in “The Jackie Rob¬ two initial campaigns with the inson Story” opening locally at Brooklyn Dodgers to the .342 the . Theatre on . which topped the National League next. and helped earn the Dodger sec¬ ond baseman the vote as the loop’s In 1946, Robinson’s first year most valuable player. in organized ball, he led the In¬ ternational League in batting Should Wait For Ball while playing for Montreal and “Sisler said I wasn’t waiting also tied for the league leader¬ long enough for the ball to come ship in runs scored with 113. up—and by steping forward to meet it had my balance on the Awarded “Rookie of Year” front foot and therefore little power. And that was the whole The next season, after moving story. I didn’t change my stance, up to the Dodgers and despite be¬ grip, stride or anything — just ing installed at a strange position, waited and so was able to get my first base, Robbie won unanimous full weight behind the swing.” selection as “rookie of the year” Jackie further added that the and was also part of the league¬ vote for him as the National leading double-play combination League’s Most Valuable Player of “Reese to Stanky to Robinson” came as a complete surprise. on the pennant winners of 1947. “My vote would have gone to In the offense department he top¬ Stan Musial of the Cards that ped the circuit in stolen bases year,” he said. “Wotta guy he is. and sacrifice hits. I still think a mistake was made After Eddie Stanky was traded —but I’m not making any fuss Mat 2C Still JR-P1 to the Boston Braves in the spring about it, you can bet.” of 1948 Jack returned to second Dee As Wife Jackie Robinson looks on incredulously as Director Alfred E. base and proceeded to top the William J. Heineman was ex¬ Green shows him how best to get a hit for a scene in the forthcoming National League’s second sack- ecutive producer on “The Jackie “The Jackie Robinson Story,” which will open.at the. ers with a fielding mark of .9795. Robinson Story.” Mort Briskin Theatre. Incidentally, Jackie led the National League in hitting last Jackie won in 1948 the painful acted as producer. Alfred E. honor in leading the league in Green of “Jolson Story” fame di¬ being hit by pitched balls—he Mat ID Still Special 2 rected from a screen story by was struck seven times. Lawrence Taylor and Arthur The best hitler, runner and Mann. base-stealer in the National Jackie Hits Record .300 Ruby Dee of the Broadway League, who won its Most Valu¬ Jackie Will Stay in There The Dodgers again won the “Anna Lucasta” fame played able Player award, is the star of pennant in 1949 and one of the Jackie’s wife and Louise Beavers “The Jackie Robinson Story,” biggest factors in their triumph his mother. Others in the cast which will open .at the on the final day of the flag race included Minor Watson as Branch Slugging, Sliding, Stealing .Theatre. Alfred E. Green was the emergence of Jackie Rob¬ Rickey and Richard Lane as Clay directed the film which Mort inson as an authentic .300 hitter. Hopper, manager of the Montreal Jackie Robinson has spiked all rumors that 1950 will Briskin produced under the su¬ Jack raised his average from a Royals where Jackie started his pervision of William J. Heineman. be his last year in baseball with the flat statement, “I’ll better-than-average .296 to a organized baseball career. keep on playing as long as I can.” sizzling .342—which won him the circuit’s batting leadership. Prov¬ Brooklyn’s star second baseman announced his decision ing that he had lost none of his receive the coveted Most Valuable Switcheroo! speed, Robinson again led the Player award. Further recogni¬ in an interview during the filming of “The Jackie Robinson league leadership in sacrifices tion came with his selection by Jackie Robinson, star of “The Story” which is slated to open Sport Magazine as “Baseball Jackie Robinson Story,” which with 17. locally on .at the . Player of the Year.” will open . at the . This powerful offensive display After only four years in organ¬ Theatre, won great fame as a Theatre. was matched with defensive skill Jackie Hits Stride ized baseball, Jack, universally second baseman for the Dodgers Robinson had previously consid¬ which saw the new double-play admitted to be one of the top but started his career with the ered retiring, he said, but decided trio of “Reese to Robinson to players in baseball, has only one Flatbush nine playing first base. against it after receiving hun¬ Hodges” top the National League In Amateur Baseball goal left to achieve. He wants to And this after he had played dreds of letters protesting such with 119 twin-killings. play on the Dodger team which second base for UCLA and the Jackie Robinson, Brooklyn a move. Robinson’s banner year was will not only win the National Montreal Royals. Which shows Dodgers’ star second baseman, “I seriously considered quitting recognized by the circuit’s base¬ League flag but capture the that a good ball player can be a whose greatest athletic success baseball because I felt I could do ball writers who selected him to World Series as well. Jack of all bases. more good in welfare work for has been in professional baseball, the YMCA,” Robinson explained. originally started in that game at “But it seemed that almost all UCLA only because he wanted my fans disagreed with me.” Jackie Robinson's Record to earn a fourth letter. He already Robinson indicated that he was a letterman in track, basket¬ would, however, make welfare ball and football. work his career when the speedy BATTING With Brooklyn His first year at college base¬ legs which have carried him to Season G AB R II TB 2B 3B HR SH BB HB SO RBI SB PCT. ball earned Jackie a very low .63 two National League base-steal¬ 1949 156 593 122 203 313 38 12 16 17** 86 8 27 124 37* .342* batting average. In fact, he ing crowns and to both the N. L. 1948 147 574 108 170 260 38 8 12 8 57 7* 37 85 22 .297 never did hit his stride in base¬ batting crown and Most Valuable 1947 151 590 125 175 252 31 5 12 28* 74 9 36 48 29* .297 ball until he began to play it as Player Award for 1949 start to an amateur after leaving college. go. Totals 454 1757 355 54R 825 107 25 40 53 217 24 100 257 88 .312 Yet last year he led the National League with a batting average With Montreal of .342 and was declared the loop’s 1946 124 444 Slugger 205 25 8 3 10 92 7 27 66 40 .349* most valuable player. “Hitting a ball out of the ball Playing himself in “The Jackie FIELDING With Brooklyn park is much easier to do in front Robinson Story,” Eagle Lion Season POSITION G PO A E TC of a camera than in front of a DP TP PCT. Films release soon to open at the 1949 2B 156 395 421 16 832 crowd at ,” accord¬ 119* 1 .981 . Theatre, the dazzling 1948 2B 116 308 315 13 636 ing to Jackie Robinson, who plays 80 0 .9795* second baseman says he relaxes IB 30 203 15 1 219 himself in “The Jackie Robinson 16 0 .995 by playing with children, espe¬ 3B 6 3 12 1 16 Story,” now playing at the 1 0 .938 cially his three-year old son, 1947 IB 151 1323 92 16 1431 Theatre. 144* 0 .989 Jackie, Jr., his most avid fan. During the filming of his life It is his liking for children With Montreal story, the Brooklyn Dodger second which led Jackie Robinson into baseman consistently kept hitting 1946 2B 119 261 385 10 656 98 0 .985 ’^indicates league-leading performance club work for underprivileged the ball “out of the park” while * indicates tied for league lead youngsters, a field he plans to the script called for a short base concentrate on when he quits hit, and as a result necessitated baseball. many extra “takes.”

Page Twenty-two B BIE S

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relay Hopper of the as Branch Rickey of Annalucasta lame s Montreal Royals BILLY WAYNE as‘ Clyde SuKeforth'

JACKIE ROBINSON “The Pride of Brooklyn”

as HIMSELF

ml |Tf' fP 1 |f'|R p’ MINOR WATSON • RUBY DEE • RICHARD LANE

MINOR WATSON as Branch Rickey ' RUBY DEE of Anna Lucasta fame ' KltHAKU -ANt 3$ Clay Hopper *UTDU”!ted by ALFREO E. GREEN who gove you Ehe Joko^Slory of the Montreal Royals Directed by ALFRED E. GREEN who gave you The Joison Story Written for the i Lawrence Taylor and ArthurMann • Produced hy MORI BRISKIN An Eagle I Scanned from the United Artists collection at the Wisconsin Center for Film and Theater Research.

Digitization and post-production completed in the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Department of Communication Arts, with funding from the Mary Pickford Foundation.

www.marypickford.org

MEDIA HISTORY DIGITAL LIBRARY

www.mediahistoryproiect.org